🔍 Key Concepts

• Rule 34(d) – Doubt or confusion signal in the Navigation Rules (sound signals for maneuvering and warning) • The phrase “if in doubt whether sufficient action is being taken by the other vessel to avoid collision” – who can have that doubt? • Difference between vessel status (give-way, stand-on, at anchor, meeting, crossing) and the right to use a danger signal

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: Does the Navigation Rule for five short blasts limit this signal to any particular type or status of vessel, or is it more general? • Think about the purpose of this signal: it’s a danger / doubt signal. In a real-world close-quarters situation, would it make sense to restrict who can use it? • Look up Rule 34 and read the wording carefully: does it say which vessel may make this signal, or simply what a vessel shall/may do when in doubt about the other vessel’s actions?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify the exact wording in Rule 34(d) of the Navigation Rules – especially who it applies to. • Confirm whether a vessel at anchor is excluded from using this doubt signal anywhere in the Rules. • Check if there is any rule that reserves the five short and rapid blasts only for the give-way vessel or only for certain encounters (meeting vs crossing).